You take pride in keeping your kitchen pristine—countertops gleam, the sink stays empty, and your fridge is well-organized. But even the most diligent cleaning routines can overlook key areas and gadgets that quietly accumulate dirt and germs. Since kitchens don’t come with a step-by-step cleaning guide, it’s easy to miss these often-ignored spots.
A deep kitchen clean is necessary from time to time, especially if you cook frequently. The next time you break out your cleaning supplies, don’t forget to tackle these sneaky dirt traps.
1. Range Hood Filters
Your range hood works hard to ventilate your kitchen, eliminating odors, heat, and grease. Over time, its filter can become clogged with grime, reducing efficiency.
For easy maintenance, remove the filter and wash it in hot, soapy water or run it through the dishwasher. According to cleaning expert Laura Smith, owner of All Star Cleaning Services, you can also use an oven-cleaning solution—but avoid scrubbing, as this can damage the filter. Instead, let the cleaning agents do the work.
2. Refrigerator Coils
You likely sanitize your fridge’s interior, but have you checked the coils? Found on the back or underside of the appliance, these coils collect dust and dirt, forcing the fridge to work harder than necessary.
A simple coil brush from the hardware store can help you remove debris, improving your refrigerator’s efficiency and longevity.
3. Dishwasher
Your dishwasher tirelessly cleans your plates, but it needs some attention, too. Mold and grime often accumulate in the black rubber gasket that seals the door. Wiping this area regularly prevents buildup.
Additionally, remove and rinse the dishwasher filter, typically located beneath the bottom dish rack, to keep your machine running smoothly.
4. Garbage Disposal Splash Guard
If your kitchen has ever been plagued by a mysterious odor, your garbage disposal may be the culprit. While many people clean the disposal itself, the splash guard—the black rubber ring at the top—often gets neglected.
Flip the guard up and clean the underside with hot, soapy water or a disinfectant solution. You can also toss it into the dishwasher for a thorough refresh.
5. Trash Cans
Even with regular bag changes, spills and odors build up inside trash cans. Every few weeks, give yours a deep clean with an all-purpose cleaner or dish soap.
For extra freshness, sprinkle baking soda inside, let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse it out. Placing dryer sheets or newspaper at the bottom before inserting a new bag can also help absorb odors.
6. Reusable Grocery Bags
Bringing your own grocery bags is great for the environment, but they can harbor bacteria from raw meats and dirty store surfaces.
To prevent contamination, toss reusable bags into the washing machine regularly. This ensures they stay clean and safe for your next shopping trip.
7. Cabinet Handles
Kitchen cabinets see a lot of action—especially around meal prep time. Grease, food particles, and fingerprints accumulate on handles and surrounding surfaces, making them a hidden hotspot for grime.
Use a degreaser or mild soapy water with a soft cloth to wipe down cabinet handles and doors. Diana Rodriguez-Zaba, president of ServiceMaster Restoration by Zaba, emphasizes that routine cleaning prevents stubborn buildup.
8. Backsplash
Backsplashes bear the brunt of cooking splatters, absorbing grease, sauces, and other residues. If left uncleaned, buildup becomes harder to remove.
After cooking, wipe down your backsplash with warm, soapy water or a mild disinfectant to prevent stains and grime from setting in.
9. Pet Food and Water Dishes
Your furry friend’s food and water bowls need regular scrubbing, too. With constant exposure to saliva, leftover food, and moisture, they can quickly become breeding grounds for bacteria.
Run them through the dishwasher or hand-wash them with pet-safe detergent, ensuring all soap is rinsed away before refilling.
Keep Your Kitchen Truly Clean
Even the tidiest kitchens have hidden dirt traps. By adding these overlooked areas to your cleaning routine, you’ll maintain a healthier, fresher space for cooking and dining. So next time you clean, don’t just wipe down surfaces—dig a little deeper and give your kitchen the full refresh it deserves.